PVC
Inclusions of various additives improve the flexibility and thermal stability of PVC.
- Its rigidity allows it to be used in water pipes
- Its flexibility allows it to be used in garden hoses.
- Resistant to oils and most organic materials so it used to make bottles to hold these materials
- Water pipes: electrical insulator, waterproof and corrosion resistant making it ideal for being in constant contact with water.
Adv of polymers on people and the environment
- Cheaper, less dense and safer than glass. Less likely to cause damage if broken.
- Conserves beach sand as this is used in glass production
- If recyclable, environmentally friendly
- For the economy, creates jobs (production, recylcing, packaging etc.)
Disadv:
- If not recyclable, accumulation of wastes
- Vinyl chloride - highly toxic to marine life, irritates skin and eyes.
Polymers have had a huge impact on society and the environment and based on this evidence the adv favour over the disadv.
